Fuel Cells for Hydrogen Locomotives: Driving the Future of Sustainable Rail Transport

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) is using fuel cells for hydrogen locomotives to promote green technologies. The company’s partnership with Ballard Power Systems highlights its commitment to sustainable rail solutions. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Future Technologies: Fuel Cells for Hydrogen Locomotives

CPKC and Ballard Power Systems began their collaboration in 2021, achieving significant progress. To date, CPKC has received fuel cell modules with a combined capacity of 10 MW. These modules have been used to retrofit diesel locomotives into hydrogen-powered ones for Alberta operations.

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By 2025, CPKC plans to acquire 98 new modules with a capacity of 200 kW each. This move will significantly enhance its hydrogen program and improve operational efficiency. Through hydrogen adoption, CPKC leads the industry in advancing sustainable transport solutions.

Advancing Implementation of Fuel Cells for Hydrogen Locomotives

In January 2023, CPKC signed an agreement with CSX to develop retrofitting equipment kits. This project aims to convert diesel locomotives into hydrogen-powered ones, accelerating the adoption of eco-friendly railway technologies.

The company began testing hydrogen locomotives in 2022, confirming the viability of these technologies. In April 2024, CSX unveiled its first hydrogen locomotive using equipment developed by CPKC. Later that year, CPKC tested its own hydrogen-powered locomotive with a train and completed two refueling stations.

Currently, three hydrogen locomotives operate on the CPKC network, showcasing efficiency and adherence to environmental standards. Fuel cells for hydrogen locomotives continue to drive the company’s transition toward greener rail transport.

Hydrogen-powered technologies represent the future of rail transport innovation. CPKC’s partnership with Ballard reinforces the importance of sustainable solutions in modern transportation. By investing in hydrogen technology, the company is paving the way for eco-friendly rail networks.

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